The supplements older adults actually need and the ones they don't
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- Nutritional deficiencies increase with age due to reduced appetite, oral health problems, chronic illness, and medications that impair nutrient absorption.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency becomes more common in older adults because lower stomach acid and drugs like metformin and proton pump inhibitors hinder its release from food.
- High‑dose oral B12 supplementation often restores B12 levels in seniors, though some individuals require injections.
- Protein intake is frequently overlooked but is essential for preserving muscle strength and independence in older adults.
- Unnecessary supplements taken without confirmed deficiencies can cause toxicity or interact with medications, posing health risks.
Why it matters: Older adults who get tested and address proven deficiencies can improve strength and cognition, while avoiding unnecessary toxic supplements saves money and reduces medication interaction risks.
